She added despite the construction downtown, Santa was able to find his way to the park.

“Santa had to take an alternate route this year, but he still found us,” she said.

After his arrival, Santa and Mrs. Claus took their seats in the gazebo, as area children filed in a line, anxiously awaiting their turn to tell Santa what they desire this year for Christmas.

Ella Mescher, 7, said she was interested in Santa’s helper for Christmas this year.

“I want an elf on the shelf,” she said.

Her brother Evan said board games were at the top of his list this year.

“I want Clue and Monopoly City and Zookeeper,” the 9-year-old said.

The siblings’ younger sister Lydia, 6, said she was hoping for a few things from Santa this year.

“A Barbie bride and groom and the game Headbands,” she said.

Cole Albers, 4, had a list ready for Santa when he visited.

“I want a Flynn the Fireman and a telescope and a Toy Story game,” Cole told Santa.

Xavier Kitzmiller, 4, said he was also interested in a fireman.

“Fireman Sam,” Xavier said of what he wanted from Santa this year.

Alex Puthoff said he was hoping for a different item related to the fire department.

“I want a toy fire truck,” the seven-year-old said.

His brother Matthew, 4, said he also wanted a toy.

“A toy crane,” Matthew said.

Riley Billing, 6, said she was interested in a gift that would benefit her hobby.

“A password journal,” she said of what she wanted, noting that she enjoys writing.

After their time with Santa and Mrs. Claus, children were each given a candy cane. Attendees were encouraged to make or bring an ornament to hang on the large tree on display in the gazebo. Hot chocolate and cookies were also available to those in attendance.

The event, a joint venture for the village of Minster and the Francis J. Stallo Memorial Library, has been around for more than 10 years, Prenger said. She noted that despite the cooler temperature, she was pleased with the amount of children who attended.

“We had a really good turnout even though it was a little chilly,” Prenger said.